Six-year follow-up of botulinum toxin A intradetrusorial injections in patients with refractory neurogenic detrusor overactivity: clinical and urodynamic results

Adverse Effects of Intravesical OnabotulinumtoxinA Injection in Patients with Idiopathic Overactive Bladder or Neurogenic Detrusor Overactivity: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Studies

Despite the efficacy of onabotulinumtoxinA, its safety profile remains a concern. This meta-analysis reviewed the major adverse events (AEs) associated with intravesical onabotulinumtoxinA treatment in patients with neurogenic detrusor overactivity (NDO) and idiopathic overactive bladder (iOAB). Randomized controlled trials (RCTs) conducted between January 2000 and December 2022 were searched for adult patients administered different onabotulinumtoxinA dosages or onabotulinumtoxinA vs. placebo. Quality assessment was performed using the Cochrane Collaboration tool, and statistical analysis was performed using Review Manager version 5.3. A total of 26 RCTs were included in the analysis, including 8 on NDO and 18 on iOAB. OnabotulinumtoxinA vs. placebo significantly increased the urinary tract infection (UTI) incidence in patients with NDO (relative risk, or RR, 1.54) and iOAB (RR, 2.53). No difference in the RR with different onabotulinumtoxinA dosages was noted. Urinary retention was frequent with onabotulinumtoxinA use in the NDO (RR, 6.56) and iOAB (RR, 7.32) groups. Similar observations were made regarding the risks of de novo clean intermittent catheterization (CIC). The risk of voiding difficulty increased with onabotulinumtoxinA use in patients with iOAB. Systemic AEs of onabotulinumtoxinA, including muscle weakness (RR, 2.79) and nausea (RR, 3.15), were noted in patients with NDO; most systemic AEs had a low incidence and were sporadic.

Onabotulinum toxin A improves neurogenic detrusor overactivity following spinal cord injury: a systematic review and meta-analysis

STUDY DESIGN

Systematic review and meta-analysis.

OBJECTIVES

The current study aimed to assess the efficacy and safety of Onabotulinum toxin A (OBTX-A) treatment for neurogenic detrusor overactivity (NDO) in spinal cord injury (SCI) patients.

SETTING

Iran.

METHODS

All relevant articles of clinical trials and cohort studies indexed in PubMed/MEDLINE, Embase, Scopus, and Web of Science databases up to September 6, 2022, that addressed OBTX-A treatment for NDO following SCI were included. The quality of eligible studies was evaluated using Cochrane criteria. Also, the weighted mean difference (WMD) was measured with a random-effect model.

RESULTS

Regarding the overall efficacy after OBTX-A treatment in the short term, volume per void (VV) (WMD = 118.8, 95% CI: 90.9-146.7, p < 0.01), incontinence-quality of life (IQoL) (WMD = 24.3, 95% CI: 15.8-32.8, p < 0.01), and maximum cystometric capacity (MCC) (WMD = 144.5, 95% CI: 132.3 to 156.7, p < 0.01) significantly increased, while maximum detrusor pressure during storage (MDP) (WMD = -30.5, 95% CI: -35.9 to -25.1, p < 0.01) showed a significant decrease. Furthermore, compared to the placebo group at the 200-unit dose, there was a significant increase in MCC (WMD = 113.5, 95% CI: 84.7 to 142.3, p < 0.01) and a significant decrease in MDP (WMD = -27.2, 95% CI: -39.2 to -15.1, p < 0.01). Urinary tract infection (UTI), hematuria, and autonomic dysreflexia were the most common side effects, occurring at rates of 29.6%, 14.8%, and 13.4%, respectively.

CONCLUSION

Our findings highlighted the effectiveness and safety of OBTX-A as a promising treatment of NDO following SCI.

Industrial Production and Therapeutic Application of Botulinum Neurotoxin: The Role of C. botulinum Type A

Botulinum neurotoxin has remarkably transitioned from a food safety hazard and biological warfare to an effective therapeutic drug. Currently, botulinum neurotoxins have seven serotypes (BoNT/A-G) in the form of protein complexes produced by Clostridium, a gram-positive and sporeforming bacteria. The conversion of toxins into useful drug substances of choice using the biotechnological process is tremendously increasing. Recent studies have shown that Botulinum neurotoxin-A (BoNT/A) has different biological activities and potencies in experimental and clinical conditions. They also indicate that the manufacturing process influences the potency and efficacy of BoNT/A drugs. Thus, this review focuses on the following criteria: detailed Fed-batch operation that includes the upstream and downstream processing of BoNT/A, the underlying mechanism behind the neurotoxic effect, and commercially available FDA-approved BoNT/A products and their therapeutic uses. Still, some research gaps exist in the mechanism for the treatment of psychiatric disorders.

Botulinum Toxin Brings a Light to the Shadow of Functional Urology

Functional urology involves a large scale of lower urinary tract dysfunctions (LUTDs), including bladder dysfunctions and bladder outlet dysfunctions [...].

Treating Neurogenic Lower Urinary Tract Dysfunction in Chronic Spinal Cord Injury Patients-When Intravesical Botox Injection or Urethral Botox Injection Are Indicated

Lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS), such as urgency, urinary incontinence, and/or difficulty voiding, hamper the quality of life (QoL) of patients with spinal cord injury (SCI). If not managed adequately, urological complications, such as urinary tract infection or renal function deterioration, may further deteriorate the patient's QoL. Botulinum toxin A (BoNT-A) injection within the detrusor muscle or urethral sphincter yields satisfactory therapeutic effects for treating urinary incontinence or facilitating efficient voiding; however, adverse effects inevitably follow its therapeutic efficacy. It is important to weigh the merits and demerits of BoNT-A injection for LUTS and provide an optimal management strategy for SCI patients. This paper summarizes different aspects of the application of BoNT-A injection for lower urinary tract dysfunctions in SCI patients and provides an overview of the benefits and drawbacks of this treatment.

Intravesical Botulinum toxin-A injection in pediatric overactive neurogenic bladder with Detrusor overactivity: Radiologic and clinical outcomes

Objective:

The neurogenic bladder is one of the most serious and painful disorders seen in pediatric urology clinics. The upper urinary tract can be impaired by increased bladder pressure. Botulinum toxin-A (BTX-A) is one of the new therapeutic interventions for this disease. Thus, this research was designed to determine the clinical as well as radiological outcomes intravesical BTX-A injections in patients with overactive neurogenic bladder with Detrusor over activity.

Patients and methods:

From March 2012 to March 2019, this cohort study was conducted at Shahid Labbafinejad hospital in Tehran, Iran. Thirty-five pediatric patients with a neurogenic bladder and Detrusor overactivity who fulfilled the eligibility criteria received BTX-A injections. Demographic data, including spinal cord lesions or congenital malformations, upper and lower urinary tract nuclear scans, evidence of vesicoureteral reflux (VUR) and its severity, and hydronephrosis and 72 h voiding diary before and after intervention were all recorded.

Results:

The mean ± standard deviation age of participants was 9.47 ± 4.61 years. After injection, nocturia and urination frequency as general symptoms of the overactive neurogenic bladder improved ( p < 0.05). Also, the severity of hydronephrosis was decreased in 33% of patients following injection. In our study, 32 out of 35 patients had vesicoureteral reflux. Of those, there was complete resolution and downgrading of VUR in 17 (53.12%) and 13 (40.62%) respectively. Seventeen patients (53.12%) had complete recovery post-injection from VUR.

Conclusion:

In the evaluation of voiding cystourethrography (VCUG) before and after the injection, downgrading of VUR was seen in 53% of the cases. In the 99mTc-DMSA nuclear scan before and after the injection, the appearance of a new parenchymal scar and uptake reduction was not observed, which indicates the cessation of scar formation in all patients. Although Enuresis, Urgency, Frequency, Nocturia, and UUI significantly improved after injection.

Interventional management and surgery of neurogenic lower urinary tract dysfunction in patients with chronic spinal cord injury: A urologist's perspective

Neurogenic lower urinary tract dysfunction (NLUTD) caused by spinal cord injury (SCI) is challenging for urologists. NLUTD not only affects the quality of life but also endangers the upper urinary tract of patients with chronic SCI. Considering that the bladder and urethral function change with time, regular follow-up of NLUTD is necessary, and any complication should be adequately treated. The first priority of bladder management in patients with chronic SCI manifesting NLUTD should be renal function preservation, followed by the normalization of lower urinary tract function. The quality of life should also be assessed. Patients who have a high risk for impaired renal function should be more frequently identified and investigated. Conservative treatment and pharmacological therapy should be started as early as possible. Intravesical or urethral injections of botulinum toxin A is an alternative treatment for refractory NLUTD. When surgical intervention is necessary, less invasive and reversible procedures should be considered first. Improving patients' quality of life and willingness to undergo bladder management is the most important aspect of treatment.

Botulinum toxin injections for Japanese patients with urinary incontinence caused by neurogenic detrusor overactivity: Clinical evaluation of onabotulinumtoxinA in a randomized, placebo-controlled, double-blind trial with an open-label extension

OBJECTIVE

To assess the efficacy and safety of botulinum toxin treatment (onabotulinumtoxinA 200 units) for Japanese patients with neurogenic detrusor overactivity caused by spinal cord injury or multiple sclerosis.

METHODS

Patients with urinary incontinence refractory to pharmacological treatment were enrolled and randomized in a phase III trial. A single dose of onabotulinumtoxinA (n = 11) or placebo (n = 10) was given in the double-blind phase, and repeat injections of onabotulinumtoxinA were given in the subsequent open-label phase. Outcomes included urinary incontinence episodes, urodynamics, patient-reported outcomes and adverse events.

RESULTS

The onabotulinumtoxinA group showed a numerically greater reduction in the number of urinary incontinence episodes per day than the placebo group, with the difference between the groups at week 6 of -3.02 (95% confidence interval -5.85 to -0.19). The onabotulinumtoxinA group also showed greater improvements in urodynamic assessments. Adverse events related to onabotulinumtoxinA injections were hematuria, urinary retention, urinary bladder hemorrhage, autonomic dysreflexia and epididymitis. Most events were deemed mild or moderate.

CONCLUSIONS

Intradetrusor injections of onabotulinumtoxinA are efficacious and tolerable for Japanese patients with neurogenic detrusor overactivity-related symptoms that are difficult to manage with anticholinergics and/or β3 -adrenergic receptor agonists.

Frontiers in the Clinical Applications of Botulinum Toxin A as Treatment for Neurogenic Lower Urinary Tract Dysfunction

Patients with neurogenic lower urinary tract dysfunction (NLUTD) experience urinary incontinence with or without difficult urination, which might promote recurrent urinary tract infection (UTI) and exacerbate upper urinary tract function. Nonetheless, appropriate bladder management has been shown to reduce urological complications and improve quality of life. In addition to pharmacological therapy and surgical intervention, botulinum toxin A (BoNT-A) has been widely utilized in NLUTD. The therapeutic efficacy of detrusor BoNT-A injections for neurogenic detrusor overactivity due to spinal cord injury (SCI), multiple sclerosis, or other central nervous system lesions, such as cerebrovascular accident, Parkinson disease, early dementia, and pediatric NLUTD due to myelomeningocele, has been well established, with repeated BoNT-A injections every 6 to 9 months being necessary to maintain its therapeutic effects. Urethral BoNT-A injection can decrease urethral sphincter resistance and facilitate efficient voiding in patients with NLUTD who wish to preserve self-voiding. Detrusor BoNT-A injection can also decrease the occurrence of autonomic dysreflexia in patients with SCI, even after failed augmentation enterocystoplasty, with additional benefits including reduced UTI episodes and preserved renal function with repeated injections. However, this treatment does have some side effects. Complete informed consent for BoNT-A injection therapy with full disclosure of its potential complications should therefore be obtained before this procedure is undertaken.

Lower Urinary Tract and Bowel Dysfunction in Neurologic Disease

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

This article provides an overview of the clinical presentation, investigations, and treatment options for lower urinary tract and bowel dysfunction in patients with neurologic diseases.

RECENT FINDINGS

The site of the neurologic lesion influences the pattern of lower urinary tract dysfunction. Antimuscarinic agents are first-line management for urinary incontinence; however, the side effect profile should be considered when prescribing them. β3-Receptor agonists are a promising alternative oral medication. Botulinum toxin injections into the detrusor have revolutionized the management of neurogenic detrusor overactivity.Bowel dysfunction commonly presents as constipation and fecal incontinence. Gastrointestinal emergencies may arise, including intestinal pseudoobstruction, intussusception, volvulus, and stercoral ulcer (ulcer of the colon due to pressure and irritation resulting from severe, prolonged constipation). Bowel function tests in neurologic patients often show a combination of slow transit and anorectal dysfunction. Management for slow transit constipation includes bulking agents, softening agents, yogurt/probiotics, and prokinetic agents. Suppositories, botulinum toxin injections, and transanal irrigation are options for managing anorectal constipation.

SUMMARY

Functions of the lower urinary tract and bowel are commonly affected in neurologic disease. Neurologists play an important role in assessing lower urinary tract and bowel symptoms in their patients and planning treatment strategies, often in collaboration with specialist teams.

Neurogenic Bladder: Epidemiology, Diagnosis, and Management

Lower urinary tract dysfunction is a common sequel of neurological disease resulting in symptoms that significantly impacts quality of life. The site of the neurological lesion and its nature influence the pattern of dysfunction. The risk for developing upper urinary tract damage and renal failure is considerably lower in patients with slowly progressive nontraumatic neurological disorders, compared with those with spinal cord injury or spina bifida. This acknowledged difference in morbidity is considered when developing appropriate management algorithms. The preliminary evaluation consists of history taking, and a bladder diary and may be supplemented by tests such as uroflowmetry, post-void residual measurement, renal ultrasound, (video-)urodynamics, neurophysiology, and urethrocystoscopy, depending on the clinical indications. Incomplete bladder emptying is most often managed by intermittent catheterization, and storage dysfunction is managed by antimuscarinic medications. Intra-detrusor injections of onabotulinumtoxinA have revolutionized the management of neurogenic detrusor overactivity. Neuromodulation offers promise for managing both storage and voiding dysfunction. In select patients, reconstructive urological surgery may become necessary. An individualized, patient-tailored approach is required for the management of lower urinary tract dysfunction in this special population.

Will repeated botulinum toxin A improve detrusor overactivity and bladder compliance in patients with chronic spinal cord injury?

Chronic spinal cord injury (SCI) can induce neurogenic detrusor overactivity (NDO), leading to urinary incontinence and renal damage due to low bladder compliance and high detrusor pressure during the storage and voiding of urine. In 2011, Botox^® (onabotulinumtoxinA, botulinum neurotoxin serotype A [BoNT-A]) was approved by the Food and Drug Administration for the treatment of NDO. Intradetrusor injection of BoNT-A has been shown to have clinical utility for the treatment of urinary incontinence, with consequent improvements in quality of life for patients. In the past 20 years, this treatment has been shown to be an effective treatment for patients with SCI refractory to antimuscarinic medication. The present review focused on publications in MEDLINE/PubMed relating to botulinum toxin to evaluate the treatment outcomes of repeated injection of BoNT-A, the mechanisms of action, results of clinical and urodynamic studies, and adverse effects.

How long does the effect of botulinum toxin in neurogenic patients last? An analysis of the subset of "good responders"

BACKGROUND

The aim of this study was to assess long-term efficacity of botulinum neurotoxin A (BoNT-A) in the treatment of neurogenic detrusor overactivity (NDO).

MATERIALS AND METHODS

This was a retrospective monocentric study in a reference center. We included patients who received intradetrusor BoNT-A for NDO between 2001 and 2015. The focus of our analysis was on patients defined as "good responders" (≥ 5 injections of intradetrusor BoNT-A over a period of ≥5 years). The primary endpoint was the evaluation of long-term efficacity of BoNT-A. Recurrent NDO was monitored by the use of cystomanometry before the first injection and 1 month after each injection. The secondary objective was to assess the influence of NDO's etiology, age, and sex on the long-term efficacity of the treatment.

RESULTS

A total of 107 patients were included (60.7% with spinal cord injury [SCI] and 36.4% with multiple sclerosis [MS]). The mean follow-up period was 83.7 months (66; 120). The mean number of injections was of 8.9 (5; 21). A total of 67.3% (n = 72) of patients were still controlled by treatment at the end of their follow-up period. Therapeutic failure occurred in 30 patients (26.1%) with a cessation of BoNT-A treatment at 76 months on average (median: 82.5 months). There was no significant impact of age (P = .42), sex (P = .35), or NDO's etiology (MS vs SCI; P = .54) on long-term efficacy of BoNT-A treatment.

CONCLUSION

The results of our study indicate that the application of BoNT-A seems to be an effective and durable treatment in a large number of neurogenic patients after more than 10 years of follow-up. However, botulinum toxin tolerance occurred in approximately 25% of patients.

Macroplastique and Botox are superior to Macroplastique alone in the management of neurogenic vesicoureteric reflux in spinal cord injury population with presumed healthy bladders

CONTEXT/OBJECTIVE

Vesico-ureteric reflux(VUR) is a known complication of neuropathic bladder in spinal cord injury(SCI) population. Bulking agents such as Macroplastique are new minimally-invasive treatment option for VUR with good results. The aim of this study is to assess the efficacy of Macroplastique alone or in combination with Botox(BTX-A), in managing VUR in SCI population with presumed healthy bladders and correlate the pre-and post-injection urodynamic findings with the outcome.

DESIGN

Retrospective comparative study.

PARTICIPANTS

SCI patients with VUR and presumed health bladders (normo-compliant, low filling pressures), treated with macroplastique alone or in combination with BTX-A, who had pre and post-intervention Video-urodynamics (VUDS) and followed up for at least 12 months.

INTERVENTIONS

Macroplastique and BTX-A injections, VUDS.

OUTCOME MEASURES

The primary end point was the overall treatment rate of VUR at 3 months and the secondary outcomes were the success rate (treated + improved) and the comparison of urodynamic parameters (pre-and post-injection).

RESULTS

We studied 34 intervention-naïve SCI patients. 19 had only Macroplastique (Group 1) and 15 had Macroplastique and BTX-A (Group 2). The overall treatment rate was 65.4% for group 1 and 88.9% for group 2 (P = 0.029). The overall success rate (treated + improved) was 80.8% and 94.4% respectively (P = 0.123). The comparison of follow up VUDS parameters showed a statistically significant rise in the detrusor pressure of group 1 (34.04cmH2O vs.19.2cmH2O, P = 0.008) and a drop in compliance (19.8mls/cmH2O vs.26.3mls/cmH2O, P = 0.018) as compared to baseline.

CONCLUSION

The combination of BTX-A and Macroplastique is more effective that Macroplastique alone in the management of secondary VUR in SCI patients with presumed healthy bladders.

[Long-term outcomes of intradetrusor botulinum toxin A in multiple sclerosis patients]

INTRODUCTION

The objective of this study was to analyze the long-term efficiency and tolerance of TB in the management of anticholinergic refractory hyperactive bladder in patients with MS.

MATERIAL AND METHOD

Retrospective mono-centric cohort study of all patients with MS who had a TB injection for anticholinergic refractory hyperactivity from 2005 to 2015. The primary endpoint was clinical efficiency based on the frequency of urinary leakage and symptomatic urinary tract infections.

RESULTS

One hundred and nineteen patients received the first injection. Median follow-up was 26.5 months. After an injection, there was a significant decrease in the number of leaks, with 69.7% of patients without leaks and 93.3% of patients without urinary tract infections. After 7 injections 44% of the patients were still dry and 62.07% had no symptomatic urinary tract infections. The failure rate was 24.37%, the average duration before discharge was 34.7 months. 19 (66%) patients stop treatment for loss of efficacy, 9 (31%) for disease progression and 1 (3%) for cessation of treatment without cause. Of the 774 injections performed, there were complications for 26 of them (3.35%).

CONCLUSION

Botulinum toxin remains the second-line reference treatment for detrusor overactivity of neurological origin. There is, at least in the short term, a good answer in a large number of cases. This response can be maintained for many years, especially if patients use intermittent catheterization, with excellent tolerance.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

4.

Ancillary benefits of bladder chemodenervation for SCI neurogenic bladder

Study design

Case series.

Objective

Bladder chemodenervation is effective in treating neurogenic detrusor overactivity (NDO) in patients with neurogenic bladder due to spinal cord injury. Anecdotal reports also describe the improvement of non-bladder symptoms, specifically those related to autonomic dysreflexia (AD) and muscle spasticity. We conducted a study to further investigate this phenomenon.

Setting

USA, Urban Tertiary Care Center.

Methods

Twenty-one persons with SCI completed the study between March and December 2015. Mean age was 45 years (range 21-69). All were scheduled to undergo bladder chemodenervation with onabotulinumtoxinA 200 units to treat bothersome NDO refractory to oral medications. Each completed a questionnaire detailing symptoms unrelated to NDO immediately prior to the procedure, and again between 6 and 12 weeks after.

Results

All patients reported improvement in NDO symptoms following chemodenervation. Ten patients with prior symptoms of AD reported improvement in AD symptoms after injection. Seventeen patients reported skeletal muscle spasticity in the 3-month period before chemodenervation. In the follow up period, only 14 patients reported having muscle spasticity. In aggregate, 12 of 21 patients reported improvement of non-bladder symptomatology following chemodenervation.

Conclusions

Chemodenervation of the bladder in patients with SCI can provide ancillary benefits in addition to mitigation of lower urinary symptoms. The mechanism may be related to dampening the bladder's ability to initiate noxious reflex responses.

Catheter-associated urinary tract infections in persons with neurogenic bladders

This review is based on the author's Donald Munro Lecture given at the annual conference of the Academy of Spinal Cord Injury Professionals in New Orleans, LA. Indwelling catheters play an important role in bladder management following SCI for many individuals with neurogenic bladders. There is an increased risk of UTI compared to other types of bladder management with indwelling urethral catheters but not SP catheters. To minimize the risk of symptomatic UTI, the following steps are essential: prevent bladder wall distention and resulting ischemia, maintain colonization with "good" bacteria, and prevent bladder stones. For individuals with recurrent symptomatic UTIs, try to change the environment, prevent bladder over distention, and make sure the bladder is "quiet" by using strategies such as adequate dosages of anticholinergics, onabotulinum toxin A, and preventing catheter blockage. Bacterial colonization of the bladder is common. However, bacterial colonization may have a positive effect by inhibition of colonization of pathogenic bacteria. Judicious use of antibiotics is important since antibiotics hasten the evolution of more resistant organisms. Potential prevention and treatment strategies include killing the offending organisms, changing the environment (such as urinary acidification), and modifying virulence factors and the bacterial microbiome.

Effects of Dietary Vitamin E Supplementation in Bladder Function and Spasticity during Spinal Cord Injury

Traumatic spinal cord injury (SCI) results in debilitating autonomic dysfunctions, paralysis and significant sensorimotor impairments. A key component of SCI is the generation of free radicals that contributes to the high levels of oxidative stress observed. This study investigates whether dietary supplementation with the antioxidant vitamin E (alpha-tocopherol) improves functional recovery after SCI. Female adult Sprague-Dawley rats were fed either with a normal diet or a dietary regiment supplemented with vitamin E (51 IU/g) for eight weeks. The rats were subsequently exposed either to a contusive SCI or sham operation, and evaluated using standard functional behavior analysis. We report that the rats that consumed the vitamin E-enriched diet showed an accelerated bladder recovery and significant improvements in locomotor function relative to controls, as determined by residual volumes and Basso, Beatie, and Bresnaham BBB scores, respectively. Interestingly, the prophylactic dietary intervention did not preserve neurons in the ventral horn of injured rats, but it significantly increased the numbers of oligodendrocytes. Vitamin E supplementation attenuated the depression of the H-reflex (a typical functional consequence of SCI) while increasing the levels of supraspinal serotonin immunoreactivity. Our findings support the potential complementary use of vitamin E to ameliorate sensory and autonomic dysfunctions associated with spinal cord injury, and identified promising new cellular and functional targets of its neuroprotective effects.

The use of urodynamic studies for the followup of neurogenic bladders treated with onabotulinumtoxinA

INTRODUCTION

Intradetrusor injection of onabotulinumtoxinA (BoNTA) is well-established as treatment for patients with neurogenic bladders. Urodynamics (UDS) is used at regular intervals during followup to monitor intravesical pressure. With regards to the discomfort and risks associated with UDS, our objective was to assess if UDS done at regular intervals in the followup of neurogenic bladders treated with BoNTA had an impact on management.

METHODS

We retrospectively analyzed the medical records of adult patients with neurological disorders treated with BoNTA for either detrusor overactivity or low bladder compliance at the Institut de Réadaptation en Déficience Physique de Québec (IRDPQ). At our centre, UDS was routinely performed at baseline, three months after the first treatment, then three months after every fifth set of injections.

RESULTS

We identified 57 patients with neurological disorder treated with intravesical BoNTA. Each patient had between one and 19 sets of injections (mean 5.61 injections) and 1-6 followup UDS (mean 2.09). Of the 119 followup UDS reviewed at our centre, three UDS (2.5%) resulted in a modification of the urinary tract management from BoNTA to bladder augmentation. Two regimens were suspended and one was ended due to patient preference.

CONCLUSIONS

Our study showed that UDS at pre-set intervals for followup of patients receiving BoNTA injections were rarely associated with modifications in the treatment course. Therefore, UDS should only be performed in cases where there are changes in the patient's symptoms or if the urologist suspects that the treatment response is suboptimal.

Intravesical Electromotive Botulinum Toxin Type "A" Administration for Management of Urinary Incontinence Secondary to Neuropathic Detrusor Overactivity in Children: Long-term Follow-up

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the long-term efficacy and success rate of intravesical electromotive botulinum toxin type A (BoNTA) "Dysport" administration in patients with myelomeningocele who had urinary incontinence due to neuropathic detrusor overactivity (NDO).

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Twenty-four patients with myelomeningocele (mean age: 9 ± 3.6 years, range: 3-16) were included in the study and followed up for 6 years. Using an electrode bladder catheter, 10 IU/kg of Dysport (BoNTA) was inserted into the bladder for electromotive drug administration (EMDA) without anesthesia on outpatient basis. The EMDA equipment was connected to the electrode of an indwelling catheter and 2 dispersive electrodes, and a pulsed current generator delivered 10 mA for 20 minutes. The preliminary assessments were voiding diary, urodynamic study, kidney and bladder ultrasounds which were also performed annually.

RESULTS

Prior to the treatment, all patients had NDO and urinary incontinence. During the follow-up, 18 of 24 (75%), 11 of 24 (45.5%), 9 of 24 (37.5%), 8 of 24 (33%), and 7 of 24 (29.1%) of the patients were completely dry between 2 consecutive clean intermittent catheterizations after once BoNTA-EMDA treatment at 1, 2, 3, 5, and 6 years of follow-up, respectively. The mean maximum detrusor pressure significantly decreased and mean maximal cystometric capacity significantly increased at follow-ups (P <.05).

CONCLUSION

The results of the present study have shown that BoNTA-EMDA is a feasible, safe, reproducible, cost-effective, long-lasting, and pain free method on an outpatient basis, with long-term duration of effects without anesthesia or cystoscopy procedure. This novel delivery system resulted in considerable improvement in urinary incontinence and urodynamic study parameters in patients with refractory NDO.

Urinary Biomarkers in Women with Refractory Urgency Urinary Incontinence Randomized to Sacral Neuromodulation versus OnabotulinumtoxinA Compared to Controls

PURPOSE

We measured urinary biomarker levels in women with refractory urgency urinary incontinence and controls at baseline and 6 months after treatment with sacral neuromodulation or intradetrusor injection of onabotulinumtoxinA. We also assessed the association of baseline biomarkers with posttreatment urgency urinary incontinence episodes and overactive bladder symptom bother outcomes.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

First morning urine samples were collected from consented trial participants and age matched women without urgency urinary incontinence. Biomarkers reflecting general inflammation, neuroinflammation, afferent neurotransmitters and tissue remodeling were measured using standardized enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay and activity assays as appropriate. Symptom bother was assessed by the overactive bladder questionnaire and urgency urinary incontinence episodes were determined by bladder diary. Linear models were used to examine differences in mean biomarker levels and the change in urgency urinary incontinence episodes and symptom bother between baseline and 6 months. Modest evidence of a potential association was represented by p ≤0.01 and p ≤0.004 represented moderate evidence of an association with outcomes.

RESULTS

Baseline biomarker levels differed little between cases and controls except tropoelastin (p = 0.001) and N-terminal telopeptide collagen type 1 (p <0.001). Changes in biomarker levels 6 months after intervention included decreases in collagenase (p <0.001) in both treatment groups and increases in interleukin-8 (p = 0.002) and matrix metalloprotease-9 (p <0.001) in the onabotulinumtoxinA group. Higher baseline calcitonin gene-related peptide across both treatments (p = 0.007) and nerve growth factor in the onabotulinumtoxinA arm (p = 0.007) were associated with less reduction in overactive bladder symptom bother.

CONCLUSIONS

Refractory urgency urinary incontinence is a complex condition. These data suggest that matrix remodeling and neuropeptide mediation may be involved in its pathophysiological mechanisms and response to treatment.

Urogenital Symptoms in Neurologic Patients

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

Lower urinary tract and sexual dysfunction are commonly reported sequelae of neurologic disease and have a significant impact on quality of life. This article presents an up-to-date summary of the clinical presentation, investigations, and treatment options for urogenital dysfunction in patients with neurologic disease.

RECENT FINDINGS

The pattern of lower urinary tract dysfunction is influenced by the site of the neurologic lesion. The risk for developing upper urinary tract damage is considerably less in patients with slowly progressive nontraumatic neurologic disorders, as compared to those with spinal cord injury or spina bifida. Investigations such as urinalysis, ultrasonography, and urodynamics provide further information about the cause and nature of lower urinary tract dysfunction. Antimuscarinic agents are the first-line management of urinary incontinence; however, side effect profile and anticholinergic burden should be considered when prescribing medications. β3-Adrenergic receptor agonists are a promising alternative oral medication. Tibial and sacral neuromodulation have been shown to be effective for managing incontinence, as well as urinary retention due to Fowler syndrome. Intradetrusor injections of onabotulinumtoxinA have revolutionized the management of neurogenic detrusor overactivity.

SUMMARY

Neurologic patients reporting urogenital symptoms require a comprehensive evaluation for planning a patient-tailored approach to management. Neurologists are increasingly inquiring about lower urinary tract and sexual functions and becoming involved in the management of these disorders.

Botulinum toxin in spinal cord injury patients with neurogenic detrusor overactivity

Evidence for the efficacy and safety of intravesical onabotulinum toxin A (onabotA) injections has led to them being licensed in many countries, including Korea, for the treatment of patients with urinary incontinence due to neurogenic detrusor overactivity (NDO) resulting from spinal cord injury or multiple sclerosis who are refractory or intolerant to anticholinergic medications. OnabotA injections have an inhibitory effect on acetylcholine release for up to 10 months, with a recommended dose of 200 U. OnabotA treatment has a beneficial effect not only on urinary symptoms, but also on quality of life. Several clinical studies have shown onabotA to have better effects than placebo in achieving continence, reducing incontinence episodes, improving urodynamic parameters, and improving health-related quality of life. Urinary tract infections and postvoid residual volume are the most prevalent side effects. In patients with residual volume, clean intermittent catheterization may be necessary. In patients with spinal cord injury or multiple sclerosis, it is recommended to evaluate physical and cognitive function before intravesical onabotA injection to ensure that the patient and caregiver are able to perform catheterization if necessary. Further controlled trials should assess the optimal dose, injection technique, long-term safety of repeated injections, and optimal timing of onabotA treatment in the treatment of NDO.

Antibiotic prophylaxis may not be necessary in patients with asymptomatic bacteriuria undergoing intradetrusor onabotulinumtoxinA injections for neurogenic detrusor overactivity

Many of the patients undergoing intradetrusor onabotulinumtoxinA injections for refractory neurogenic detrusor overactivity (NDO) present with chronic bacteriuria. In these patients, antibiotic prophylaxis has been widely recommended since bacteriuria might impair treatment efficacy and cause urinary tract infections (UTI) but the evidence is limited. The aim of this study was to evaluate if an antibiotic prophylaxis is needed in patients with asymptomatic bacteriuria undergoing intradetrusor onabotulinumtoxinA injections. Between 06/2012 and 12/2014, a consecutive series of 154 patients undergoing a total of 273 treatment cycles were prospectively evaluated. Before treatment urine samples were collected, patients with no clinical signs for UTI underwent onabotulinumtoxinA injections, no antibiotic prophylaxis was given. Asymptomatic bacteriuria was found in 73% (200/273 treatments). Following treatment, UTI occurred in 5% (9/200) and 7% (5/73) of patients with and without bacteriuria, respectively. Intradetrusor onabotulinumtoxinA injections were clinically and urodynamically successful in 70% (192/273). There was no association between bacteriuria and treatment-related adverse events (odds ratio 0.64, 95% CI 0.23–1.81, p = 0.4) nor between bacteriuria and therapy failure (odds ratio 0.78, 95% CI 0.43–1.43, p = 0.4). Thus, we conclude that antibiotic prophylaxis needs to be critically reconsidered in patients undergoing intradetrusor onabotulinumtoxinA injections, especially taking into account the alarming antibiotic resistance worldwide.

Nocturia in Parkinson's Disease: Why Does It Occur and How to Manage?

BACKGROUND

Nocturia is one of the commonest nonmotor symptoms in Parkinson's disease (PD) and has a significant impact on quality of life both for patients and their carers. There exists a relation between nocturia and poor sleep quality, falls, and institutionalization. Nocturia may manifest as a result of reduced functional bladder capacity or nocturnal polyuria; however, most often the cause is multifactorial. Disorders of circadian rhythm regulation are known to occur with sleep disturbances in PD may also contribute to nocturia.

METHODS AND RESULTS

In this review, an overview of the assessment and management of nocturia in patients with PD is presented. History taking, medication review, and a bladder diary form the cornerstone of the evaluation. Urinalysis, ultrasonography, and urodynamic studies help to assess the cause for lower urinary tract symptoms and exclude concomitant pathologies, such as bladder outlet obstruction. Antimuscarinic medications are the first-line treatment for the overactive bladder; however, caution is needed when using these medications in individuals predisposed to cognitive impairment. Desmopressin is effective for managing nocturnal polyuria.

CONCLUSIONS

An individualized approach is recommended to optimize the management of nocturia in PD.

Long-Term Efficacy and Safety of OnabotulinumtoxinA in Patients with Neurogenic Detrusor Overactivity Who Completed 4 Years of Treatment

PURPOSE

We assessed the year-to-year consistency of outcomes in patients with urinary incontinence due to neurogenic detrusor overactivity who completed 4 years of onabotulinumtoxinA treatment.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Eligible patients who completed a 52-week phase 3 trial of onabotulinumtoxinA for urinary incontinence could enter a 3-year open label extension study of onabotulinumtoxinA 200 or 300 U administered as needed for symptom control. This analysis focused on 227 patients who completed the 4-year study. Outcomes assessed by year of treatment included mean treatments per year, mean change from baseline at week 6 in urinary incontinence episodes per day and the I-QOL (Incontinence Quality of Life) total summary score, the proportion of patients with 50% or greater and 100% reductions in urinary incontinence episodes per day, duration of effect and adverse events.

RESULTS

Patients reported 4.3 urinary incontinence episodes per day at baseline and received 1.4 to 1.5 onabotulinumtoxinA treatments per year. The decrease in urinary incontinence following onabotulinumtoxinA consistently ranged from -3.4 to -3.9 episodes per day across 4 years. A high proportion of patients achieved 50% or greater and 100% urinary incontinence reductions in each year (range 86.6% to 94.1% and 43.6% to 57.4%, respectively). Consistent and clinically relevant improvements in I-QOL scores were observed in each treatment year. The overall median duration of effect of onabotulinumtoxinA was 9.0 months or greater (range 3.0 to 49.2) and 26.0% or more of patients experienced a duration of effect of 12 months or greater. The most common adverse event was urinary tract infection with no increased incidence with time.

CONCLUSIONS

Patients with neurogenic detrusor overactivity who completed 4 years of onabotulinumtoxinA treatment experienced a consistent duration of treatment effect and year-to-year improvements in urinary incontinence and quality of life with no new safety signals.

Clinical Efficacy and Changes of Urothelial Dysfunction after Repeated Detrusor Botulinum Toxin A Injections in Chronic Spinal Cord-Injured Bladder

Chornic spinal cord injury (SCI) will induce bladder urothelium dysfunction. This study investigated the therapeutic effects on urothelial dysfunction after repeated detrusor injections of onabotulinumtoxinA (BoNT-A) in SCI patients with neurogenic detrusor overactivity (NDO). Twenty chronic suprasacral SCI patients with NDO were enrolled. The patients received 300 U BoNT-A injection into the detrusor every six months. The urothelium was assessed by cystoscopic biopsy at baseline and six months after each BoNT-A treatment. Immunofluorescence staining for urothelial dysfunction, including E-cadherin, zonula occludens-1 (ZO-1), tryptase for mast cell activity, and urothelial apoptosis were investigated. The outcome of urothelial dysfunction parameters after BoNT-A injection were compared between baseline and six months after each treatment. Repeated 300 U BoNT-A injections showed a sustained decrease of detrusor pressure compared with baseline. After three repeated BoNT-A detrusor injections, significantly greater distributions of E-cadherin (p = 0.042) and ZO-1 (p = 0.003) expressions, but no significant changes, of urothelial apoptosis and mast cell activation were found after repeated BoNT-A therapy. Urothelial dysfunction, such as adhesive and junction protein concentrations in SCI patients’ bladders, recovered after three repeated cycles of BoNT-A treatment. The therapeutic effects sustained. However, urothelial inflammation and apoptosis after SCI were not significantly improved after three repeated BoNT-A injections.

Ten years of experience with intravesical and intrasphincteric onabotulinumtoxinA in children

OBJECTIVE

To review 10 years of experience with both intravesical and intrasphincteric onabotulinumtoxinA (Botox(®)) injections in children.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Fifty three children aged between 1 and 18 years at first injection had a combined total of 134 injections (106 intravesical, 23 intrasphincteric and five combined) between January 2004 and December 2013 at Princess Margaret Hospital. Follow-up occurred 3 months post procedure, and then 3-6 monthly. Response to Botox was graded according to the International Children's Continence Society (ICCS) response to treatment scale. Response time was the time that the injection remained effective before symptoms relapsed to the ICCS 'no response' category Nevéus et al., 2006.

RESULTS

Median response times to Botox by pathology are summarised in Table 1. For detrusor overactivity (DO), the response after each Botox injection was in the ICCS '>90% symptom reduction' category Nevéus et al., 2006. Two children had sustained responses to Botox for a tenth and eleventh injection, respectively. A total of 45% of children receiving intrasphincteric Botox for chronic dysfunctional voiding (DV) or detrusor sphincter dyssynergia (DSD) had no symptom recurrence. Intravesical Botox was effective for treating new-onset hydronephrosis secondary to neurogenic bladder in one child. Intravesical Botox had a sustained effect over five injections in eliminating trigonal hypersensitivity and pain with CIC in one child. Episodes of severe autonomic dysreflexia in one child with a high cord transection were effectively eliminated by intravesical Botox, and were sustained over three injections. Thirteen of the 134 Botox injections (9.7%) had a symptomatic culture-positive urinary tract infection (UTI) in the 2 weeks following injection. All had a history of previous UTI. Three children (2.8%) developed urinary retention after intravesical injection.

DISCUSSION

Intravesical Botox remained effective after up to eleven injections. In children with DV or DSD, the response to Botox was more variable, but 45% experienced symptom resolution with no recurrence. Trigonal hypersensitivity with CIC improved in a child after Botox. Botox may confer long-term bladder and upper tract protection in the neurogenic patient group. Severe episodes of autonomic dysreflexia triggered by bladder fill in a child with high cord lesion were eliminated by intravesical Botox.

CONCLUSION

This study demonstrated that intravesical Botox remained effective in response quality and response time in children up to an eleventh injection. This is one of the longer follow-up studies in children published to date. Botox was effective in numbing trigonal hypersensitivity, treating new-onset hydronephrosis secondary to neurogenic bladder, and eliminating episodes of autonomic dysreflexia in one patient each.

How botulinum toxin in neurogenic detrusor overactivity can reduce upper urinary tract damage?

Intradetrusor injections of botulinum toxin are the cornerstone of medical treatment of neurogenic detrusor overactivity. The primary aim of this treatment is to ensure a low pressure regimen in the urinary bladder, but the mechanisms leading to long-term protection of the urinary tract remain poorly understood. In this paper, we highlight the potential benefits of intradetrusor injections of botulinum toxin regarding local effects on the bladder structures, urinary tract infections, stone disease, vesico ureteral reflux, hydronephrosis, renal function based on a comprehensive literature review.

Lower urinary tract dysfunction in the neurological patient: clinical assessment and management

Lower urinary tract (LUT) dysfunction is a common sequela of neurological disease, resulting in symptoms that have a pronounced effect on quality of life. The site and nature of the neurological lesion affect the pattern of dysfunction. The risk of developing upper urinary tract damage and renal failure is much lower in patients with slowly progressive non-traumatic neurological disorders than in those with spinal cord injury or spina bifida; this difference in morbidity is taken into account in the development of appropriate management algorithms. Clinical assessment might include tests such as uroflowmetry, post-void residual volume measurement, renal ultrasound, (video-)urodynamics, neurophysiology, and urethrocystoscopy, depending on the indication. Incomplete bladder emptying is most often managed by intermittent catheterisation, and storage dysfunction by antimuscarinic drugs. Intradetrusor injections of onabotulinumtoxinA have transformed the management of neurogenic detrusor overactivity. Neuromodulation offers promise for managing both storage and voiding dysfunction. An individualised, patient-tailored approach is required for the management of LUT dysfunction associated with neurological disorders.

Current and potential urological applications of botulinum toxin A

Botulinum toxin subtype A (BoNT-A) is a potent neurotoxin that can selectively modulate neurotransmitter release from nerve endings, resulting in muscular paralysis. BoNT-A might also act on sensory nerves, and have an anti-inflammatory effect. In the first urological use of BoNT-A, injection into the urethral sphincters of patients with detrusor-sphincter dyssynergia resulted in a reduction of urethral resistance and improved voiding efficiency. Subsequently, intravesical BoNT-A injections have received regulatory approval for treatment of neurogenic detrusor overactivity owing to spinal cord lesions or multiple sclerosis, and idiopathic overactive bladder in adults. BoNT-A has also been widely used to treat patients with the off-label indications of neurogenic or non-neurogenic voiding dysfunction and male lower urinary tract symptoms owing to BPH and bladder-neck dysfunction. Other indications for which urologists have applied BoNT-A injections include interstitial cystitis/bladder pain syndrome, bladder oversensitivity and chronic pelvic pain syndrome. BoNT-A is currently delivered as an intravesical injection; however, use of liposome encapsulated formulations is also beginning to show some therapeutic potential.

Autonomic consequences of spinal cord injury

Spinal cord injury (SCI) results not only in motor and sensory deficits but also in autonomic dysfunctions. The disruption of connections between higher brain centers and the spinal cord, or the impaired autonomic nervous system itself, manifests a broad range of autonomic abnormalities. This includes compromised cardiovascular, respiratory, urinary, gastrointestinal, thermoregulatory, and sexual activities. These disabilities evoke potentially life-threatening symptoms that severely interfere with the daily living of those with SCI. In particular, high thoracic or cervical SCI often causes disordered hemodynamics due to deregulated sympathetic outflow. Episodic hypertension associated with autonomic dysreflexia develops as a result of massive sympathetic discharge often triggered by unpleasant visceral or sensory stimuli below the injury level. In the pelvic floor, bladder and urethral dysfunctions are classified according to upper motor neuron versus lower motor neuron injuries; this is dependent on the level of lesion. Most impairments of the lower urinary tract manifest in two interrelated complications: bladder storage and emptying. Inadequate or excessive detrusor and sphincter functions as well as detrusor-sphincter dyssynergia are examples of micturition abnormalities stemming from SCI. Gastrointestinal motility disorders in spinal cord injured-individuals are comprised of gastric dilation, delayed gastric emptying, and diminished propulsive transit along the entire gastrointestinal tract. As a critical consequence of SCI, neurogenic bowel dysfunction exhibits constipation and/or incontinence. Thus, it is essential to recognize neural mechanisms and pathophysiology underlying various complications of autonomic dysfunctions after SCI. This overview provides both vital information for better understanding these disorders and guides to pursue novel therapeutic approaches to alleviate secondary complications.

Novel Treatment of Chronic Bladder Pain Syndrome and Other Pelvic Pain Disorders by OnabotulinumtoxinA Injection

Chronic pelvic pain (CPP) is defined as pain in the pelvic organs and related structures of at least 6 months' duration. The pathophysiology of CPP is uncertain, and its treatment presents challenges. Botulinum toxin A (BoNT-A), known for its antinociceptive, anti-inflammatory, and muscle relaxant activity, has been used recently to treat refractory CPP with promising results. In patients with interstitial cystitis/bladder pain syndrome, most studies suggest intravesical BoNT-A injection reduces bladder pain and increases bladder capacity. Repeated BoNT-A injection is also effective and reduces inflammation in the bladder. Intraprostatic BoNT-A injection could significantly improve prostate pain and urinary frequency in the patients with chronic prostatitis/chronic pelvic pain syndrome. Animal studies also suggest BoNT-A injection in the prostate decreases inflammation in the prostate. Patients with CPP due to pelvic muscle pain and spasm also benefit from localized BoNT-A injections. BoNT-A injection in the pelvic floor muscle improves dyspareunia and decreases pelvic floor pressure. Preliminary studies show intravesical BoNT-A injection is useful in inflammatory bladder diseases such as chemical cystitis, radiation cystitis, and ketamine related cystitis. Dysuria is the most common adverse effect after BoNT-A injection. Very few patients develop acute urinary retention after treatment.

Neurogenic bladder in spinal cord injury patients

Neurogenic bladder dysfunction due to spinal cord injury poses a significant threat to the well-being of patients. Incontinence, renal impairment, urinary tract infection, stones, and poor quality of life are some complications of this condition. The majority of patients will require management to ensure low pressure reservoir function of the bladder, complete emptying, and dryness. Management typically begins with anticholinergic medications and clean intermittent catheterization. Patients who fail this treatment because of inefficacy or intolerability are candidates for a spectrum of more invasive procedures. Endoscopic managements to relieve the bladder outlet resistance include sphincterotomy, botulinum toxin injection, and stent insertion. In contrast, patients with incompetent sphincters are candidates for transobturator tape insertion, sling surgery, or artificial sphincter implantation. Coordinated bladder emptying is possible with neuromodulation in selected patients. Bladder augmentation, usually with an intestinal segment, and urinary diversion are the last resort. Tissue engineering is promising in experimental settings; however, its role in clinical bladder management is still evolving. In this review, we summarize the current literature pertaining to the pathology and management of neurogenic bladder dysfunction in patients with spinal cord injury.

The evaluation and management of refractory neurogenic overactive bladder

Patients with neurologic disease commonly develop overactive bladder (OAB) symptoms of urgency, frequency, and/or urge incontinence that remain bothersome despite oral pharmacologic therapy. Management of refractory OAB in the neurogenic population is a complex issue with no uniform treatment strategy. When treatment fails or patients generally are dissatisfied with the adverse effects of oral therapy, available options include sacral neuromodulation, percutaneous tibial nerve stimulation (PTNS), botulinum toxin injections, and lower urinary tract reconstruction such as augmentation cystoplasty. A thorough knowledge and understanding of available and emerging treatment options for neurogenic detrusor overactivity is paramount to assisting clinicians in choosing an appropriate treatment. This article reviews the non-pharmacologic treatment options for neurogenic OAB, mainly botulinum toxin, neuromodulation, and lower urinary tract reconstruction, and discusses important relevant studies.

Cost-effectiveness analysis of onabotulinumtoxinA (BOTOX(®)) for the management of urinary incontinence in adults with neurogenic detrusor overactivity: a UK perspective

OBJECTIVES

To evaluate the cost effectiveness of onabotulinumtoxinA (BOTOX(®), 200 units [200 U]) for the management of urinary incontinence (UI) in adults with neurogenic detrusor overactivity (NDO) due to subcervical spinal cord injury or multiple sclerosis that is not adequately managed with anticholinergic drugs (ACHDs).

PERSPECTIVE

UK National Health Service (NHS) perspective.

METHODS

A Markov state-transition model was developed, which compared onabotulinumtoxinA + best supportive care (BSC) with BSC alone (comprising behavioural therapy and pads, alone or in combination with clean intermittent catheterization and possibly with ACHDs). Non-responders were eligible for invasive procedures. Health states were defined according to the reduction in UI episodes. Efficacy data and estimates of resource utilization were pooled from 468 patients on onabotulinumtoxinA in two phase III clinical trials. Drug costs (2013) and administration costs (NHS Reference Costs 2011-2012) were obtained from published sources. The time horizon of the model was 5 years, and costs and benefits were discounted at 3.5%. Scenario, one-way and probabilistic sensitivity analyses (PSAs) were conducted to explore uncertainties around the assumptions.

RESULTS

In the base case, treatment with onabotulinumtoxinA + BSC over 5 years was associated with an increase in costs of £1,689 and an increase in quality-adjusted life-years (QALYs) of 0.4, compared with BSC alone, resulting in an incremental cost-effectiveness ratio of £3,850 per QALY gained. Sensitivity analyses showed that utility values had the greatest influence on model results. PSA suggests that onabotulinumtoxinA + BSC had a 100 % probability of being cost effective at a willingness to pay of <£20,000.

CONCLUSION

For adult patients with NDO who are not adequately managed with ACHDs, onabotulinumtoxinA + BSC appears to be a cost-effective use of resources in the UK NHS.

OnabotulinumtoxinA for neurogenic detrusor overactivity and dose differences: a systematic review

PURPOSE

To evaluate the efficacy and safety of onabotulinumtoxinA for patients with neurogenic detrusor overactivity (NDO).

MATERIALS AND METHODS

We searched the Cochrane Library, PUBMED, EMBASE, Chinese Bio-medicine database, China Journal Full-text Database, VIP database, Wanfang database for randomized controlled trials (from inception to September 2012). Two authors independently selected studies, extracted data and assessed the methodological and evidence quality using the Cochrane Risk of Bias Table and GRADE (Grading of Recommendations, Assessment, Development and Evaluation) respectively. Data analysis was performed by RevMan 5.1 and descriptive analysis was employed if necessary.

RESULTS

Eight studies were selected (n=1879 participants). OnabotulinumtoxinA was more related to urinary tract infection (UTI) (200 U: OR 1.72, CI: 1.18-2.52; 300 U: OR 1.88, CI: 1.31-2.69) versus placebo. Also, OnabotulinumtoxinA was superior to placebo in improving maximum cystometric capacity (MCC) (200 U: OR 138.80, CI: 112.45-165.15; 300 U: OR 152.09, CI: 125.25-178.93) and decreasing maximum detrusor pressure (MDP) (200 U: MD -29.61, CI: -36.52--22.69; 300 U: MD-28.92, CI: -39.59--18.25). However, there were no statistical differences between 200 U and 300 U onabotulinumtoxinA in UTI (OR 0.84, CI: 0.58-1.22), MCC (OR-12.72, CI: -43.36-17.92) and MDP (MD 2.21, CI: -6.80-11.22).

CONCLUSIONS

OnabotulinumtoxinA may provide superior clinical and urodynamic benefit for populations with NDO. High-quality studies are required for evaluating the optimal dose, long-term application and when to perform repeated injections.

Expert consensus on scientific evidence available on the use of botulinum toxin in overactive bladder

OBJECTIVES

Overactive bladder (OAB) is a pathology impairing patients' quality of life and with a high percentage of patients who are refractory to medication. In this paper, technical opinion of an «expert panel» is assessed in order to gain the most reliable professional consensus on scientific evidence available on the criteria of use of Onabotulinumtoxin A (OnabotA) in OAB.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

according to DELPHI method, 42 panelists answered a survey of 93 items divided into four strategic areas including clinical criteria and recommendations in order to improve, at different levels, the current approach to patients with OAB. The recent advances in the field, areas of controversy and their real application possibilities in the different areas of our health care system were taken into consideration.

RESULTS

Two rounds of the questionnaire were completed by all experts. In the first round, a criteria consensus was reached for 64 of 93 (68.8%) questions analyzed; in the second round the consensus reached was for 83 items evaluated (89.25%). An agreement among panelist was reached for: 1) definition, classification, detection and differential diagnosis; 2) medical treatment; 3) surgical treatment; 4) role of OnabotA in the treatment of OAB.

CONCLUSIONS

the consensus is broadly in line with the latest scientific evidence on OAB. The panelists believe that it is necessary to propose a change in the current definition of OAB and that it seems necessary to improve the screening tools too. Medical treatment of OAB must be tailored to each patient, staged and progressive. The use of OnabotA (Botox(®)) could imply therapeutic advantages with respect to other treatments, and positions itself as a safe and effective alternative to treat drug refractory OAB.

Single-center experience with botulinum toxin endoscopic detrusor injection for the treatment of congenital neuropathic bladder in children: effect of dose adjustment, multiple injections, and avoidance of reconstructive procedures

OBJECTIVE

Since 2007, intra-detrusor OnabotulinumtoxinA (OnabotA) injections have been selectively offered at our institution for cases in which maximal anticholinergic therapy failed or was not tolerated. Herein we present our experience with this approach.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

We prospectively obtained data on 17 patients who underwent OnabotA injections over a 4-year period. Demographic information, number of injections, and dose delivered were captured. Children were monitored with baseline and post-injection renal ultrasound, urodynamics, and assessed for side effects, satisfaction, and symptom improvement.

RESULTS

Forty-three sessions were performed with injections given every ∼ 6 months. Mean patient age was 10.7 years (range, 3-17). Compared with baseline, after the first injection, mean bladder capacity adjusted for age and compliance improved by 27% (p = 0.039) and 45.2% (p = 0.041), respectively. After subsequent injections, these values increased to 35.7% (p = 0.043) and 55.1% (p = 0.091), respectively. Out of 13 symptomatic patients, ≥ 50% improvement was reported in ten (76.9%) and complete resolution in seven (53.8%). However, all three patients in whom the maximum dose of OnabotA was reduced from 300 to 200 units complained of recurrent symptoms. Fourteen children avoided surgical reconstruction as a second line of treatment. Overall patient/parental reported satisfaction rate was 70.6% (12/17).

CONCLUSIONS

Intra-detrusor OnabotA injection is a promising intervention for management of neuropathic bladder in selected patients. Our data demonstrate improvement in symptoms and urodynamic parameters. Although an optimal dose has not been determined for children, we found optimal response with a maximum administration of OnabotA up to 300 units.

Neurogenic overactive bladder in spinal cord injury and multiple sclerosis: role of onabotulinumtoxinA

People with neurogenic overactive bladder from either multiple sclerosis or spinal cord injury often suffer significant morbidity and decreased quality of life. Here we review the pathophysiology of neurogenic overactive bladder and the impact it can have on people with multiple sclerosis or spinal cord injury. We also address the various traditional treatment options and focus on the use of botulinum toxin A (specifically onabotulinumtoxinA) for this condition.